By Dave Lucas
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-975100.mp3
Albany, NY – Although The 2016 Presidential Election is a long way off, observers believe New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is on the road to Washington. Capital District Bureau Chief Dave Lucas reports.
Shortly after his landslide victory last November, Andrew Cuomo responded to a question from the Albany Times Union's editorial board as to WHEN the success or failure of his agenda might be measured, by quipping "You'll know to write the obituary in June" - Cuomo never had to look back - Jamie Chandler, political science professor at Hunter College, describes the Governor's leadership style as "shining".
In the six months since he was sworn into office, Andrew Cuomo has emerged as one of New York's most powerful Governors, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the likes of Nelson Rockefeller and Hugh Carey, able to push his policies though in an authoritative manner. Chandler says if Cuomo is able to maintain his strong leadership style, the road to the White House may be the logical next step.
Robert Ward, deputy director of the Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government, says Cuomo has been quick to seize the moment and get in front of where the people want to go.
The New York Times reports Andrew Cuomo's fundraising base in New York also makes him a force with which to be reckoned. He collected about $20 million for the 2010 race. Observers says if he can ride the wave of popularity through the rest of his term, he should have no difficulty raising funds should he decide to pursue the Democratic presidential nomination.